How to Rename a Shelter Dog

My name used to be Sammy, but now it's Murphy

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If you recently adopted a shelter dog, you may want to give your new family member a new name. Especially, if your new pet was renamed when they were brought to the shelter or Animal Care & Control center.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

treats (string cheese or bits of hot dog are perfect)
cheerful voice
a friend

Step1

Stand in large room (your living room is fine) with a friend. Each of you should stand on either side of your dog.

Step2

Call your dog using his/her new name. For example, say "Murphy!". (Say the name is a positive and friendly tone. Don't scream.) As soon as the dog looks at you, say the word "YES!" in a very cheery and upbeat tone. Then, offer your dog a treat as a reward.

Step3

Next, have your friend call your dog. Follow exactly the same process. As soon as the dog makes eye contact with your friend after he/she says your dog's name, have your friend say the word "Yes!" and then give your dog a treat.

Step4

Increase distance and improve recall reliability. Continue to move further apart from your friend so your dog has to make a greater commitment to come to you or your friend. Practice this "name" game constantly. Try out new rooms, move to the yard, etc. Eventually, you should try this at a dog park or where there are more distractions.

Step5

Add on to your training. Once your dog comes to you reliably, add on another step before he/she receives a treat. For example, call his/her name, then once you dog comes to you, have him/her sit before rewarding with a "Yes!" and treat.

Tips & Warnings

Always say your dog's name with a positive tone to build trust, especially if you have a shelter dog. When you use your dog's name harshly, they will not want to come to you. (Did you want to go talk to your parents when they screamed your name?)
Be patient. Shelter dogs often have been abandoned and they need to believe that they can trust you. Positive affirmations are a great way to get a reluctant new shelter dog to trust you and want to spend time with you.
Remember that dogs learn differently than humans. Just because they know their name inside, does not mean they'll know their name outside. Train your dog in every possible situation and environment to ensure they understand what you're asking.